BAD BREATH

Whether you call it bad breath or halitosis, it’s an embarrassing and unpleasant condition which may be impacting your career and social life in more ways than you realize. Some people with bad breath aren’t even aware there’s a problem. If you’re concerned about bad breath, consult with Dr. Desai to identify the cause and develop a plan to treat it.

If you don’t brush and floss daily, particles of food can remain in the mouth, and collect bacteria, which can cause bad breath. Food that collects between the teeth, around the gums and on the tongue can rot, leaving a bad smell.

Bad breath can also be caused by dry mouth, or lack of saliva. Saliva is necessary to cleanse the mouth and remove particles that may cause an odor. Dry mouth can be caused by many medications, salivary gland problems, or continuously breathing through the mouth. If you suffer from dry mouth, your dentist may prescribe an artificial saliva, or suggest using sugarless candy and increasing your water intake.

Bad breath can also be a symptom of several medical disorders. If Dr. Desai determines that your mouth is healthy, and not the cause of your bad breath, you may be referred to your family doctor for help in determining the cause.